Makassar government enlists neighborhood officials to boost social protection data collection

The Makassar City Government is intensifying its efforts to collect digital social protection data by engaging neighborhood officials (RT/RW). This initiative aims to ensure all eligible residents are registered by the end of August 2026, with an ambitious target of achieving 70% data collection.

According to the Head of the Makassar City Social Services Agency, Andi Bukti Djufrie, the data collection process has entered a new phase after the completion of initial data collection by agencies in 15 sub-districts. The current focus is on involving RT/RW officials to identify and register residents who have not yet been reached. Djufrie emphasized that these neighborhood officials are vital for re-registering and verifying residents, as they possess a deep understanding of the socio-economic conditions within their respective areas.

Djufrie stressed that the role of RT/RW officials extends beyond mere data recording; they are responsible for verifying the accuracy of the data and ensuring it reflects the current socio-economic status of residents. This meticulous verification process is intended to ensure that only those who truly meet the criteria for social protection are accurately identified and targeted for assistance. Currently, Makassar has achieved 27.73% of its digital social protection data collection, or approximately 465,207 residents, placing it 20th out of 43 districts and cities participating in the national program.

While the national target for data collection is set at 50%, Makassar has set a more ambitious goal of 70%. The optimization of RT/RW roles is considered the primary strategy to reach unregistered residents and bridge data gaps. The city government hopes that this approach will improve the accuracy of information regarding residents' conditions, thereby enabling more precise and targeted social assistance programs. This strategic move underscores the importance of collaboration between the regional government and the lowest community levels to ensure no eligible resident is overlooked in the data collection process.